Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Discover the vibrant array of cultural and artistic experiences awaiting you. From immersive workshops and engaging panels to captivating performances and festivals, explore what's on the horizon and join us in celebrating the dynamic arts scene of Prince Georgeβs County and beyond.
Interested in showcasing your organizationβs event on our calendar? If so, submit your event using the link below!
Art Healing: Immersive Art Experience with Sumrien Ali
Art Healing: Immersive Art Experience with Sumrien Ali
Discover calm, creativity, and connection through art in this immersive abstract painting workshop led by artist Sumrien Ali.
Designed as a space for emotional release and creative exploration, Art Healing invites participants to dive into color, texture, and movement to create meaningful, personal artwork. This experience encourages reflection and self-expression, using art as a tool for inner balance and emotional resilience.
Whether youβre new to painting or already have a creative practice, this workshop offers a powerful way to slow down, reconnect, and express what words often cannot.
What to Expect:
Guided abstract art-making led by artist Sumrien Ali
A creative and supportive environment for personal expression
Space to explore a meaningful memory or emotional moment through art
Gentle practices that can be used for mindfulness and stress relief
Leave with your own original artwork and a renewed sense of clarity
No prior art experience is requiredβjust come with an open heart and a willingness to explore.
About SUMRIEN ALI
SUMRIEN ALI is a modern-day visual artist who focuses on abstract paintings. Her paintings invite viewers to reflect on reality through the artistβs eyes, stepping outside of themselves to experience another personβs viewpoint and emotional range. By combining dynamic color combinations, layers, and texture, Sumrien strives to create movement and to explore the journey of discovery, life, and depth. Her currently preferred medium is acrylic on canvas with a palette knife.
Sumrien sees architecture as an art and a science. It is the act of taking the abstract and building a reality. Art, on the other hand, starts with reality and creates an abstract representation of it. She is drawn to producing abstract works because of the creative freedom they allow. They have no boundaries, rules, or regulations, unlike architecture, but support limitless emotions and possibilities.
Born in Karachi, Pakistan, and raised in Poughkeepsie, NY, Sumrien lived the early part of adulthood in Raleigh, NC, before calling Washington, DC, her home. She is a practicing architect and designer transitioning into real estate development after completing her Master's in Real Estate Finance and Development from Georgetown University. Sumrienβs most admired artists include Mark Rothko, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Jackson Pollock.
EXPLORE SUMRIEN ALI'S WORK
Acrylic Pour Jewelry Making Workshop
Acrylic Pour Jewelry Making Workshop
Unleash your creativity and design your own one-of-a-kind accessories in this colorful, hands-on jewelry making workshop.
Perfect for both kids and adults, this session introduces the exciting art of acrylic pouringβa fluid painting technique used to create vibrant, marbled designs. Participants will use their custom-poured patterns to craft unique, wearable pieces of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and more.
This workshop is a fun and accessible way to explore self-expression through art, with no prior experience required.
What to Expect:
Learn the basics of acrylic pour art
Create vibrant, abstract designs using safe, kid-friendly materials
Turn your pour artwork into wearable jewelry pieces
Take home multiple custom-made accessories
A fun, DIY experience for all ages
Bring your imaginationβeverything else is provided.
Hoop It Up: Painting Workshop with Resident Artist Roger James
Hoop It Up: Painting Workshop with Resident Artist Roger James
Paint your passion and explore your creativity in this dynamic, basketball-themed art workshop led by resident artist Roger James.
Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or looking to sharpen your technique, Hoop It Up offers a fun, hands-on opportunity to learn professional painting methods in a relaxed and inspiring environment. This session celebrates the energy of the game and the power of artistic expressionβperfect for families, teens, and adults alike.
Roger will guide participants through color theory, texture, and composition as you create your very own basketball-inspired masterpiece to take home.
What to Expect:
Step-by-step instruction from artist Roger James
Learn professional painting techniques and color blending
Create a basketball-themed work of art from start to finish
All materials provided
A welcoming, creative space for all skill levels
Come ready to paint, play, and leave with a frame-worthy piece of your own.
ABOUT THE ARTIST ROGER JAMES
Roger James is a portrait artist out of Riverdale in Prince Georgeβs County, MD. He has been painting for over 20 years.
Specializing in figurative oil paintings, James essentially depicts noted figures of society, particularly in the sports & entertainment genres. James has painted Kobe Bryant, Serena Williams, and Michael Jordan, among others.
Mr. James is also a self-published Children's book illustrator. His Pecan series, "Pecan Runs for Class President" and "Pecan's Field Day," are currently available on Ingram Spark and Amazon in hardback and paperback. James currently takes commissioned pieces, expertly executing the likenesses of his patrons.
The Great Laugh and Giggle Adventure: A Family Joy Session
The Great Laugh and Giggle Adventure: A Family Joy Session
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience where kids and parents laugh, move, and breathe together.
Join us for an uplifting, joy-filled workshop designed to help families recharge, reconnect, and have fun through the power of play. During this interactive session, participants will enjoy simple stretches, playful games, and contagious belly laughsβleaving everyone feeling lighter, happier, and more connected.
This session is perfect for families of all shapes and sizes. No yoga mats or special skills requiredβjust wear comfy clothes and bring a readiness to giggle.
What to Expect:
Gentle movement and breathing exercises for all ages
Fun family games that encourage laughter and teamwork
Mindful moments to help everyone relax and feel grounded
A welcoming, creative space for joyful connection
Leave feeling refreshed, smiling, and more connected as a family
Come laugh with usβitβs a great day to giggle together.
About workshop host RHONDA KAALUND.
Rhonda Kaalund is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, and Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher with over 25 years of experience. She earned her Masterβs in Community Counseling from Appalachian State University and has taught at both Appalachian State and Virginia Commonwealth University.
Her dedication to equity in healthcare began in Johnston County, North Carolina, where she co-founded Johnston County Medical Ministries as an incorporator, an initiative that later evolved into Project Access, offering free and reduced-cost healthcare for underserved residents. Her career has been recognized with numerous awards across higher education, federal service, and the U.S. House of Representatives.
Rhonda is the author of "From Invisible to Visible: Master the Art of Being Seen" and co-author of "The Love Pact and A Reason to Be". Certified by founder, Dr. Madan Kataria Rhonda has facilitated hundreds of Laughter Yoga sessions across the globe. She is also co-founder of The Kaalund Collective LLC and a creative enthusiast who indulges in travel, photography, expressive arts, and the beauty of sunrises and sunsets.
A Celebration of Alzheimerβs Awareness Month: Interactive Read-Along with Dr. Yemonja Smalls
A Celebration of Alzheimerβs Awareness Month: Interactive Read-Along with Dr. Yemonja Smalls
Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring celebration of Alzheimerβs Awareness Month with Dr. Yemonja Smalls β artist, author, and advocate for community connection through creativity.
This interactive read-along experience is designed for families, caregivers, and community members of all ages. Through story, art, and thoughtful conversation, Dr. Smalls will guide participants in exploring the themes of memory, love, and care, offering insight into the Alzheimerβs journey while honoring the strength and resilience of those impacted.
Donβt miss this opportunity to come together in a warm, inclusive space for reflection, storytelling, and support.
Highlights of the event include:
Live read-along led by Dr. Yemonja Smalls
Engaging discussion on caregiving, memory, and connection
Creative activities that encourage expression and reflection
Awareness-building moments about Alzheimerβs and community resources
A welcoming atmosphere for individuals, families, and caregivers alike
Letβs celebrate the power of story to build empathy, spark conversation, and bring our community together.
About Dr. Yemonja Smalls
Dr. Yemonja Smalls is a multidisciplinary artist with very little formal artistic training. Originally from Hershey, PA, but a recent transplant from Chicago, IL, to Baltimore, MD, she works in the Maryland Department of Healthβs Developmental Disabilities Administration.
Yemonjaβs mixed media creations in various mediums have been exhibited in the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, the Frederick Douglass Issac-Meyers Maritime Museum, Hill Center Galleries, on the set of the famous Fox Hit TV show βEmpireβ, Harold Washington Library, South Side Community Art Center, Howard University, the Sojourner Family Peace Center among others, and reside in various private collections across the nation.
Spook-n-Sparkle Halloween Party
Spook-n-Sparkle Halloween Party
Get ready for a fun-filled, festive Halloween at Arts'tination! Spook -N -Sparkle is a family-friendly celebration packed with creative activities, sweet treats, and spooky sparkle. Join us for an afternoon of face painting, candy, and Halloween-themed fun thatβs perfect for kids of all ages.
Bring your little ghouls and goblins to enjoy:
Creative face painting by artist Luther Wright
Candy treats to satisfy every sweet tooth
A festive, safe, and fun environment for families to celebrate together
Don't forget to dress up in your spookiest costume and celebrate the season with creativity, candy, and a little bit of spooky sparkleβthis Halloween event is not to be missed!
Mindful Crafting: Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Mindful Crafting: Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Take a break, slow down, and reconnect with yourself through the calming art of decoupage. Join us for Mindful Crafting: Taking Care of Your Mental Health, a hands-on workshop designed to nurture both your creativity and well-being.
In this session, youβll learn the basics of decoupageβan accessible art form that transforms everyday objects into personalized works of beautyβwhile exploring how creative practices can support stress relief, self-expression, and mindfulness. No prior art experience is required; just bring your openness to create and relax.
What to Expect:
Step-by-step decoupage instruction
Guided mindfulness exercises woven into the creative process
A safe, supportive space for self-care and connection
Your own handcrafted piece to take home
Intro to Impressionism with Artist Jay Durrah
Intro to Impressionism with Artist Jay Durrah
Step into the world of light, color, and movement in this engaging workshop, Intro to Impressionism with Artist Jay Durrah. Guided by renowned artist Jay Durrah, participants will explore the history and techniques of Impressionism while learning how to bring their own creative vision to life on canvas.
Whether youβre a beginner or an experienced painter, this session offers an accessible introduction to brushwork, color blending, and capturing the fleeting beauty of everyday momentsβhallmarks of the Impressionist style. Jay Durrah will share insights from his artistic journey, demonstrate techniques, and provide hands-on guidance to help you create your own Impressionist-inspired piece.
What Youβll Experience:
A brief introduction to the history and influence of Impressionism
Live demonstrations and step-by-step instruction from Jay Durrah
Hands-on painting session with personalized feedback
A finished piece of artwork to take home
All materials will be provided.
ARTIST PROFILE
JAY DURRAH
Jay Durrah is a self-taught artist from Western PA who has been sketching since the age of nine. Jay has a B.A. in Political Science from Howard University, Class of 1983. Jay had some formal training at the Corcoran School of Art and the Montpelier Arts Center.
Jay draws portraits mostly starting with the eyes, for he believes they capture the essence of a personβs being. Jayβs style strategically places multiple colors on canvas to create portraits. The use of multiple colors represents the multiracial aspect of humans. Through his art, Jay aims to draw people's attention to the commonalities of humanity.
Jay has showcased his work in museums, galleries, corporate exhibitions, music venues, and art festivals throughout the country. A highlight of his journey was getting selected for a group show at the US Embassy in Rome. Jay had four solo shows: at the Lamar Art Center in Barnesville, GA; Gallery O on H in Washington, DC; The Harlem Coffee Co. in Harlem, NY; and Harmony Hall Art Center in Ft. Washington, MD.
Jay completed several public art projects in the DMV area. During the George Floyd protests, Jay had a mural on display at the National Building Museum, depicting a young Black boy holding a sign that asked, βAm I Next?β His works are held in either private or public collections, both in the US and abroad.
EXPLORE SOME OF JAY DURRAH'S WORK
"I AM NOT YOUR LITERATURE" Book Launch
"I AM NOT YOUR LITERATURE" Book Launch
Join us for a joyous celebration of the book launch for Saniya Pearson, the 2024 Prince Georgeβs County Youth Poet Laureate. Immerse yourself in an inspiring afternoon filled with evocative poetry, boundless creativity, and heartfelt connections as we explore the transformative power of language and expression. Donβt miss this opportunity to witness the magic of words come to life!
This special event will showcase the powerful voice and creativity of the next generation through live readings, conversations, and a celebration of literature and community. Be among the first to experience Saniya's book, hear the poet share their work, and learn about the journey to becoming Youth Poet Laureate.
Guests will also enjoy opportunities to purchase signed copies, connect with fellow poetry lovers, and uplift young voices shaping the future of arts and culture in our community.
Highlights of the evening include:
Live poetry readings by the 2024 Youth Poet Laureate
Q&A and conversation about the book and creative process
Book signing and meet & greet
Light refreshments and networking
Donβt miss this chance to celebrate youth talent, storytelling, and the power of poetry to inspire change.
SANIYA PEARSON
2024 PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY YOUTH POET LAUREATE
Art Healing: Immersive Art Experience
Art Healing: Immersive Art Experience
Join the talented artist Sumrien Ali for an immersive abstract art workshop. Dive deep into your emotions as you experiment with vibrant colors, intricate textures, and dynamic movements. In this creative space, youβll have the opportunity to craft a personal piece of original art that poignantly captures a significant moment in your life. Allow your feelings to guide you and let your imagination run free!
WHAT TO EXPECT:
The Heart of Art Healing. The goal of this workshop is simple: to help you feel lighter, calmer, and more connected to yourself.
Success isnβt measured by the artwork you create, but by how you feelβwhether itβs a release of stress, a new insight, or simply a moment of peace.
By the end, youβll leave with:
A deeper sense of balance between mind and body
Gentle creative practices you can carry into daily life, and
Renewed energy, clarity, and emotional resilience.
Art Healing is about opening a door to growth, healing, and rediscovering parts of yourself that are waiting to be found.
Celebrating the Arts: A National Arts & Humanities Month Event
Celebrating the Arts: A National Arts & Humanities Month Event
Join us for βCelebrating the Artsβ β a joyful, multi-genre celebration in honor of National Arts and Humanities Month!
This free, family-friendly event is presented in partnership with:
The Prince Georgeβs County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS)
The Prince Georgeβs Arts & Humanities Council (PGAHC)
Maryland Humanities
The Prince Georgeβs County Truth Chapter of ASALH (Association for the Study of African American Life and History)
Curated and moderated by Prince Georgeβs County Poet Laureate Emerita, Sistah Joy, the program will showcase a vibrant lineup of artistic performances, including:
Opera by Soprano Karen Wiggs-Wilbanks
Poetry & Spoken Word by Sistah Joy and Asad Sharpe
Visual Art by Russell R. Lewis and Kailyn Winston
Live Jazz by Ben Sands
Ballet by The Brown Ballerinas from The Paula Brown Performing Arts Center
Bring a friend and join us for an afternoon filled with inspiration, expression, and community.
We canβt wait to see you there!
Mindful Crafting for Children
Mindful Crafting for Children
Tap into creativity and calm at Mindful Art: Decoupage & Wellness for Kids, a hands-on workshop designed to nurture emotional wellness through playful expression at Artsβtination, National Harborβs creative hub.
In this child-centered experience, participants will explore the colorful art of decoupage while learning simple mindfulness tools like deep breathing and sensory awareness. Each activity is crafted to help kids build confidence, regulate emotions, and most importantlyβhave fun!
Children will leave with beautiful, personalized creations and practical skills to support their emotional growth and self-awareness in everyday life.
Ideal for ages 7β15 | No crafting experience needed | All materials provided | Free
Poetry, Art & Music β Mixinβ It Up!
Get ready to mix color, creativity, and craft at the Acrylic Pour Jewelry Workshop β a hands-on art experience at Artsβtination, National Harborβs creative destination, happening Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 PM.
Learn how to create one-of-a-kind wearable art using vibrant acrylic pouring techniques. Whether youβre a seasoned artist or a total beginner, this workshop is all about letting go, having fun, and making something beautiful you can take home and wear with pride.
Come solo or bring a friendβjust bring your imagination and get ready to dive into an afternoon of color, creativity, and community.
All materials provided | No experience needed | Free & open to the public
Acrylic Pour Jewelry Workshop
Get ready to mix color, creativity, and craft at the Acrylic Pour Jewelry Workshop β a hands-on art experience at Artsβtination, National Harborβs creative destination, happening Sunday, August 10 at 2:00 PM.
Learn how to create one-of-a-kind wearable art using vibrant acrylic pouring techniques. Whether youβre a seasoned artist or a total beginner, this workshop is all about letting go, having fun, and making something beautiful you can take home and wear with pride.
Come solo or bring a friendβjust bring your imagination and get ready to dive into an afternoon of color, creativity, and community.
All materials provided | No experience needed | Free & open to the public
Painting African Masks on Canvas w/Artist DionJa'y
Painting African Masks on Canvas w/Artist DionJa'y
Celebrate culture, creativity, and community at Painting African Masks on Canvas with DionJaβyβa vibrant hands-on art experience at Artsβtination, National Harborβs creative destination, on Tuesday, September 23 at 2:00 PM.
Led by the talented visual artist DionJaβy, this workshop invites you to explore the beauty and symbolism of African masks while creating your own one-of-a-kind canvas painting. No experience is neededβjust bring your imagination and a willingness to experiment!
Whether youβre coming solo or with friends, this is the perfect afternoon to relax, express yourself, and take home a meaningful piece of art rooted in cultural heritage.
Free | All materials provided | Ages 13+ welcome
Spoken Word & Poetry at Artsβtination β Pt. 2
Spoken Word & Poetry at Artsβtination β Pt. 2
The mic is back on, and the voices are even louderβjoin us for Spoken Word & Poetry β Pt. 2, a free teen poetry and open mic event held inside PGAHCβs Artsβtination gallery at National Harbor.
Come experience the power of words as we continue to celebrate local youth talent in an afternoon filled with rhythm, reflection, and real stories. This installment features a fresh round of performances from emerging poets, alongside special appearances by Youth Poet Laureates Kaylee Joge (2025) and Saniyah A. Pearson (2024). Moderated once again by Poet Laureate Emerita Sistah Joy, this creative space is open for all to share, listen, and be inspired.
Whether youβre returning from Part 1 or joining us for the first time, donβt miss this chance to uplift young voices and embrace the art of spoken word.
Free | Open Mic | All Teens Welcome
Spoken Word & Poetry at Artsβtination β Pt. 1
Spoken Word & Poetry at Artsβtination β Pt. 1
Step into an afternoon of powerful voices and poetic expression at Spoken Word & Poetry β Pt. 1, a celebration of creativity, identity, and youth storytelling at Artsβtination, National Harborβs artistic home for local talent.
Experience the beauty of language as featured youth poets share their original workβverses filled with heart, truth, and imagination. From raw emotion to joyful celebration, this event invites you to witness the next generation of artists as they take the mic and make their voices heard.
Whether youβre a poetry lover, an emerging writer, or simply looking for an inspiring way to spend your Saturday, this open mic and showcase will leave you moved, connected, and creatively charged.
Featuring:
β’ Featured poetry sets by emerging teen poets
β’ Open Mic for youth participants
β’ Light fare reception + meet & greet with performers
Event Schedule:
β’ 3:00β4:00 PM | Poetry Presentations by Featured Poets
β’ 4:00β4:30 PM | Open Mic, Light Fare, and Meet & Greet
Memories: A Mental Health Art Show
Memories: A Mental Health Art Show
Dead The Silence, in collaboration with PGAHC, presents βMemories: A Mental Health Art Show,β designed to explore art and mental health.
In honor of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, join us as we explore and elevate the powerful role of art in healing and mental well-being.
This intimate event showcases local artists and mental health professionals, exploring how creative expression impacts emotional well-being and fosters meaningful dialogue.
At its core, βMemoriesβ is about breaking the silence surrounding mental health by transforming personal experiences into visual stories. Through diverse artistic mediums, paintings, installations, photography, and more, artists will share both their work and the emotional journeys behind it. Each piece will offer a window into the complexities of memory, trauma, healing, and resilience.
Featured artists include a diverse range of talents, such as Brian Tolbert, Jameel Pierre, Artsβtination artists, Dr. Yemonja Smalls, DionJaβy Pollard, and Leslie Holt of Neuro Blooms, among others.
A compelling discussion will also be led by DβShawn Harris, M.Ed., LCPC, NCC, featuring Dead the Silence co-founders Anthony Duncan and Osadeba Omokaro. The panel will explore the role of art in mental health.
This event aims to be more than just an art show; itβs a healing journey. It celebrates creativity, vulnerability, and shared strength. Itβs a space where we break the silence together, engaging in meaningful dialogue and shared experiences.
All That Jazz & Poetry Too
All That Jazz & Poetry Too
Step into a soulful evening where rhythm meets verse at All That Jazz β a vibrant night of poetry and live jazz at Artsβtination, National Harborβs creative destination.
Experience the magic of spoken word artists as they breathe life into stories of love, struggle, identity, and triumph, set to the smooth, improvisational grooves of live jazz. This intimate celebration of art, culture, and self-expression invites you to unwind, connect, and be moved by the power of music and language in perfect harmony.
Whether you're a poetry lover, a jazz enthusiast, or simply craving a unique night out, this event is your chance to vibe with the creative spirit of Prince Georgeβs County.
Featuring:
Dynamic spoken word and poetry sets led by Prince George's County Poet Laureate Emeritus, Sistah J. Joy Alford
Live jazz performances by The Ben Sands Jazz Trio
Refreshments and creative ambiance inside the Artsβtination gallery
Artist Reception: M. Gasby Brown at Artsβtination
Artist Reception: M. Gasby Brown at Artsβtination
Join us for an evening of creativity, connection, and bold artistic expression at Artsβtination during our Artist Reception featuring M. Gasby Brown.
This special event celebrates the installation of Gasbyβs striking new window display and offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from the artist about her inspiration, process, and vision.
Event Schedule:
6:00 β 6:15 PM: Welcome, Tour of Artsβtination, Networking & Light Refreshments
6:15 β 6:30 PM: Opening Remarks
6:30 β 7:30 PM: Artist Talk featuring M. Gasby Brown
Explore Gasbyβs acclaimed Let the Music Play collection and engage in thoughtful dialogue about the power of visual storytelling and the role of art in cultural expression.
About the Artist:
Known as the Ambassador of Bold, M. Gasby Brown is a self-taught artist whose work has been featured in galleries across the country and collected by celebrities, corporations, and civic leaders. With mediums ranging from oil and acrylic to found objects and mixed media, her work is deeply inspired by faith, freedom, and personal evolution.
Gasbyβs journey into the arts began later in life, proving that creativity knows no timeline. With a background spanning journalism, nonprofit leadership, authorship, and entrepreneurship, she now pours her passion into her full-time art practice.
Whether you're an art lover, emerging creative, or curious soul, this reception promises a rich and unforgettable experience.
Reserve your spot and join us for a powerful celebration of art, community, and creative freedom.
Freedom in Full Color: A Juneteenth Paint & Sip Celebration
Freedom in Full Color: A Juneteenth Paint & Sip Celebration
Join us for Freedom in Full Color, a vibrant Juneteenth celebration that blends art, culture, and community at Artsβtination! This special Paint & Sip experience invites you to reflect on the meaning of freedom and resilience through creative expression.
Led by acclaimed muralist Luther Wright, attendees will participate in a guided painting session designed to honor the legacy of Juneteenth and the spirit of African American heritage. No matter your skill level, this event is for everyoneβfrom first-time painters to experienced artists.
Event Highlights:
Guided Painting Session: Create your own masterpiece under the direction of Luther Wright, whose dynamic murals can be seen across the DMV.
Sip and Savor: Enjoy a selection of refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages while you paint.
Music & Entertainment: Immerse yourself in sounds that celebrate Black culture and freedom.
Cultural Reflection: Engage in meaningful dialogue and connection around the significance of Juneteenth and the power of creative expression.
About the Artist:
Luther Wright is a multidisciplinary artist known for his bold, colorful murals that transform public spaces and spark community connection. With studios in Brentwood and Hyattsville, MD, Luther is passionate about using art to inspire, engage, and unite people of all backgrounds.
Join us as we celebrate Juneteenth through art, conversation, and connection.
This event is free, but space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
We look forward to painting in full color with you!
